“Above all else.” That’s a pretty significant directive! And we are wise to check what resides in that wellspring of our hearts. Among the many things we find in our hearts, there will always be one of two very specific things in the lead. Faith or Fear? One will always be on the top of the heap. They cannot both occupy the same place.

If faith resides in your wellspring, peace will pour out with confidence in God’s care for you, even in the midst of uncertain times.

If fear resides there, anxiety and discouragement will be the natural outward flow. Left unchecked, fear can scatter our faith like confetti in the wind and leave us anchorless in the storms of life.

Faith over-rides fear. Fear over-rides faith. Many times a day we choose which one will flow from us. Above all else, guard what pours from that wellspring. God gives very specific instruction on how to do this:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

Worry is a call to prayer. Your faith and trust in God will override your fear. His peace will actually put a guard around your heart and mind so fear cannot overrun you. It’s supernatural and it’s real.

Father God, I confess that fear is often my first response to challenges that come my way. May I be conscious today of choosing to trust you with every detail of my life. Help me to have faith to leave the question marks in your control and to trust you to carry me and sustain me with your peace that is beyond understanding. Today I choose to put my trust in you. Fill my heart with child-like faith. I ask in the strong name of Jesus, amen.

Go Deeper― This Advent week, consider whether faith or fear is pouring from your wellspring. Set aside some time to consciously pray the prayer above and invite God into your concerns in a fresh way. It’s why Jesus came ― to bring us His peace.

Read FurtherFinding Perfect Peace in the Storm



Tags: Peace Proverbs 4
Photo Credit: Aaron Burden